Parc des Franchises: Electrical modernisation and public lighting in an active urban environment
When electricity reinvents an urban park
Located in Geneva, Parc des Franchises is a versatile public space hosting a wide range of sports and recreational facilities. As part of its full renovation, the OCAN (Canton Office for Agriculture and Nature) appointed SPIE MTS to deliver all electrical works across the site, including the modernisation of public lighting, the power supply of sports equipment and access management systems, in line with the City of Geneva‘s Smart City requirements.
The challenge
The main challenge of this project lay in carrying out large-scale works within a public park undergoing full transformation, whilst ensuring continuity of service and
the safety of users.
From a technical standpoint, the project involved the complete replacement of an ageing network and the full modernisation of the park’s electrical installations, in compliance with Swiss ordinances (OIBT, OICF), standards (NIBT) and specific local regulations (City of Geneva, SIG).
Logistics also represented a significant challenge: with no on-site storage area available, a rigorous delivery schedule was required, coordinated continuously with
the site management and other trades to ensure materials were supplied in line with the exact pace of construction progress.
Finally, all works had to be completed in time for the park’s inauguration on 27 June 2026, requiring strict adherence to the programme and ongoing coordination between all stakeholders.
The project
Appointed for its expertise in delivering and coordinating large-scale electrical projects in urban environments, SPIE MTS took charge of all electrical works at Parc des Franchises. Started in July 2025 and due for completion in June 2026, the project covers the full modernisation of public lighting, the power supply of sports, recreational and paddling pool facilities, as well as the implementation of access management systems, in accordance with the City of Geneva's specifications.
Project progress
Project delivery was structured around several key interventions, planned in successive phases to align with the overall progress of the works:
- Sizing study and power capacity upgrade
- Survey and removal of existing installations
- Installation of new supply cables and electrical cabinets
- Public lighting installation and remote management system
- Electrical equipment installation for the paddling pool
- Installation of retractable bollards for access management
- Commissioning, regulatory inspections and handover of technical documentation
Specific technical choices were made to ensure the durability and reliability of the installations in a public park environment, including the use of SIG-EP cables, anti-rodent armoured cables and AD8 cables resistant to chemical agents such as chlorine.
Benefits
This project delivered the complete modernisation of public lighting and a reliable power supply for all sports and recreational facilities within the park. Full compliance with OIBT, NIBT, SIA and SIG standards enhances user safety and ensures total regulatory conformity. Through a carefully phased and coordinated approach, service continuity was maintained throughout the works. The technical solutions adopted — scalable and tailored to current urban needs — are fully aligned with a Smart City approach.
Results
- Park fully operational for the opening in June 2026.
- Zero disruption to park activities throughout the works.
- Electrical network fully upgraded and sized for current and future needs.
- Energy savings, visual comfort and respect for local wildlife and vegetation.
Technical Specifications
- Customer: Republic and Canton of Geneva
- SIte: Geneva, Switzerland
- End of project: 2026
- Opening Date: 27 June 2026
- Solution: Smart City & Industry